Null Pointer Dereference Vulnerability in Linux Kernel FPGA Manager
Summary
CVE-2024-37021: In the Linux kernel, the following vulnerability has been resolved: fpga: manager: add owner module and take its refcount The current implementation of the fpga manager assumes that the low-level module registers a drive... Affects linux versions 5.10.103-1 – 6.9.9-1. No fix is published. How to fix ↓
Check if this vulnerability affects your application
Upload a manifest or SBOM and we'll show whether you're affected, plus every other risky package in the same scan.
No signup required · Results in about 60 seconds
Background
The Linux kernel is a core component of many operating systems, providing essential services for hardware and software interaction. The FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) manager is a subsystem within the kernel that facilitates the management of FPGA devices. This subsystem is crucial for enabling dynamic hardware reconfiguration, allowing users to adapt hardware functionality on-the-fly. However, the FPGA manager's reliance on the parent device's driver registration has exposed it to a vulnerability that can lead to system instability.
Vulnerability Detail
In the Linux kernel, a vulnerability has been identified in the FPGA manager due to its assumption that the parent device will always have a registered driver. This assumption can lead to a null pointer dereference when the manager attempts to access the driver, resulting in potential system crashes or undefined behavior. The vulnerability arises from the lack of a dedicated module owner pointer in the fpga_manager struct, which is necessary for managing the module's reference count correctly. If the parent device lacks a driver, the system may attempt to dereference a null pointer, causing significant issues.
How To Fix
No fixed version is published for this vulnerability.
Tip — Not sure whether your app is affected? Vulert can check the versions your app actually runs. Scan free →
Workaround
Currently, there are no specific workarounds mentioned for this vulnerability. However, users are advised to ensure that all parent devices have registered drivers to mitigate the risk of encountering this issue until a fix is applied.
Conclusion
The CVE-2024-37021 vulnerability in the Linux kernel's FPGA manager poses a significant risk due to potential null pointer dereferences. By implementing the recommended fixes and ensuring that all parent devices have registered drivers, users can enhance the stability and security of their systems. Utilizing tools like Vulert can further assist in monitoring and addressing vulnerabilities in open-source software.
See every vulnerability recorded for linux →
FAQ
CVE-2024-37021 is a vulnerability in the Linux kernel's FPGA manager that can lead to a null pointer dereference due to the assumption that the parent device has a registered driver.
If your system utilizes the FPGA manager without a registered driver for the parent device, it may experience crashes or undefined behavior due to null pointer dereferences.
The vulnerability affects multiple versions of the Linux kernel across Debian 11, 12, and 13, with specific fixes available in version 6.9.7-1 for Debian 13.
You can use Vulert, which monitors open-source vulnerabilities in your software. By using the Vulert playground, you can check if your application is affected by this vulnerability without any signup.
Yes, a patch has been developed and is available for the affected versions of the Linux kernel. Users should apply the patch to mitigate the vulnerability.
Related vulnerabilities
Recent vulnerabilities recorded for linux.
